Alternative Solutions

Alternative solutions, formerly known as “equivalents”, allow for flexibility in building construction. They provide the design team with a means to employ innovative construction materials and design methods in their building projects.

Alternative solution submissions must demonstrate that the proposed approach provides an equal or better level of performance to the prescribed provisions in the Building By-law.

Alternative Solutions Frequently Asked Questions

The following material provides answers to the most commonly asked questions regarding alternative solutions.

1. Who Can Prepare an Alternative Solution?

• Professional architect or engineer registered in the Province of BC

2. How Do I Apply for an Alternative Solution?

• complete a request form (201kb) and submit it to the attention of the Chief Building Official, 453 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Y 1V4
• multiple alternative solutions should be summarized on the following form (189kb)
• review fee can be paid by cheque only

3. My Project Involves an Existing Building, Can I still Apply for an Alternative Solution?

• Yes

4. I am Faced with Difficult Issues Relating to Upgrades of an Existing Building, What do I do?

• submit a request for “acceptance of existing condition with mitigating features” (199kb)
• request is subject to review and acceptance by the Chief Building Official’s office

5. What Fees are Associated with Alternative Solutions?

• View the fee schedule (219kb)

6. What is the Review Process for Alternative Solutions?

• reviewed by engineers in the CBO’s Office
• complex and/or unique requests may be reviewed at weekly Code Committee meeting
• requests that are deemed acceptable are signed off and returned to applicant
• refused requests returned to applicant with reason for refusal

7. How Long Does it Take for a Decision?

• three to four weeks, depending on complexity

8. What Happens if an Alternative Solution Request is Refused?

• submission must be revised to address concerns that triggered refusal
• request can be resubmitted for re-review (new review fee required)

9. Where Can I Find Further Information?

• Bulletin 2000-063-AD (66kb)

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